Family Life
Southsea seafront
Southsea seafront is the perfect place for walks and outdoor pursuits with 4 miles of beach stretching from Old Portsmouth to Eastney. On a clear day, you can spot the Isle of Wight, with sweeping views across the Solent.
Miles of beaches give families an opportunity to explore Portsmouth's coastline as well as gigantic green spaces where you can relax and enjoy the sea air. For a traditional seaside day out, you can enjoy mini golf, pitch and putt and beach volleyball. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can even go for a swim or paddle at the beach.
Canoe lake
Southsea is also home to the canoe lake, a popular spot for families looking for something to do. Crabbing, boating and picnics are the order of the day for those who want a more relaxed pace in one location.
If you enjoy exploring, you can visit the model village, rose garden and play park or have lunch in a nearby café.
Blue Reef Aquarium
This indoor venue is located on Southsea seafront and gives families the chance to explore an underwater world full of sharks, clownfish and jellyfish. You can even walk through a spectacular underwater tunnel and get up close to the wonders of the aquatic world. In warm weather, families can take part in the Blue Reef Beach Club with its sandy beach, rock pool, sandpit and outdoor splash play area.
Spinnaker Tower
For the ultimate view of Portsmouth and the surrounding coastline, visit the Spinnaker Tower. Standing at 170 metres tall, the Spinnaker Tower is a popular destination with its viewing platforms and a glass floor to walk across if you dare.
Interactive screens allow you to discover the story behind the iconic structure. If you want to get the ultimate experience, take the drop, an exhilarating descent down the side of the tower with trained instructors.
The piers
For those looking for a traditional seaside experience, a trip to a pier should definitely be on your to do list. South Parade Pier is a must as you enjoy uninterrupted views out across the Solent with an ice cream in hand. With a restaurant, shops, pop-up eateries and an arcade, you can enjoy a day out like no other.
Further along the seafront, you'll spot Clarence Pier, one of the largest amusement parks on the south coast, boasting a wide range of rides and activities for the whole family.
Cumberland House Natural History Museum
Discover the city's natural history as you explore a seasonal butterfly house and rich collection of local wildlife. Visitors can meet the resident iguanodon, the observational beehive and explore the A-Z of natural history display.
